How I Built This with Guy Raz
Guy Raz | Wondery
Guy Raz interviews the world’s best-known entrepreneurs to learn how they built their iconic brands. In each episode, founders reveal deep, intimate moments of doubt and failure, and share insights on their eventual success. How I Built This is a master-class on innovation, creativity, leadership and how to navigate challenges of all kinds.New episodes release on Mondays and Thursdays. Listen to How I Built This on the Wondery App or wherever you listen to your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/how-i-built-this now. Get your How I Built This merch at WonderyShop.com/HowIBuiltThis.
Episodes
Mentioned books
42 snips
Nov 20, 2023 • 1h 13min
Everlane: Michael Preysman
Michael Preysman, the founder of Everlane, shares his journey from finance to fashion, driven by a passion for transparency. He taught himself the entire production process and challenged industry norms by revealing the true costs behind his T-shirts. Michael discusses the impact of ethical practices on brand growth, as well as the hurdles faced during the COVID era. He emphasizes the balance between profitability and sustainable practices, showcasing how consumer advocacy fueled Everlane's rapid success.
13 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 31min
Literally unearthing a climate solution with Cody Finke of Brimstone
Cody Finke, co-founder and CEO of Brimstone, is on a mission to revolutionize cement production. With traditional methods contributing significantly to CO2 emissions, he discusses how replacing a key ingredient can transform the industry from carbon-intensive to carbon-negative. Dive into Finke's academic journey and the innovations behind using calcium silicate rocks. He also addresses the challenges of market acceptance and scaling operations, all while paving the way for a sustainable future in construction.
6 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 1h 8min
Priority Bicycles: Dave Weiner
Dave Weiner, founder and CEO of Priority Bicycles, shares his remarkable journey from tech CEO to bicycle innovator. He discusses the challenges faced while launching low-maintenance bikes and the thrill of a successful Kickstarter campaign that exceeded expectations. With insights on designing durable bicycles, Weiner reflects on navigating the pandemic’s impact and personal setbacks, including a serious accident. The conversation highlights his commitment to creating affordable, high-quality bicycles that enhance the riding experience for everyday users.
26 snips
Nov 9, 2023 • 42min
When a robot cooks your lunch with Steve Ells of Chipotle and Kernel
Steve Ells, the visionary founder of Chipotle and Kernel, discusses his journey from revolutionizing fast casual dining to launching a highly automated vegan restaurant concept. He shares insights on how climate change informs his new venture and his belief that robots can enhance the dining experience for everyone. Ells explores the balance between technology and human touch in restaurants, the rise of plant-based options, and the importance of innovation and leadership in reshaping the food industry.
4 snips
Nov 6, 2023 • 1h 14min
Kona Ice: Tony Lamb
Tony Lamb, the mastermind behind Kona Ice and Traveling Tom's, shares his thrilling entrepreneurial journey from vacuum salesman to founder of a vibrant shaved ice franchise. He discusses how a frustrating experience with freezer-burned popsicles inspired him to innovate with self-serve syrup trucks. Tony also reveals the secrets behind growing Kona Ice to 1500 trucks across North America, including creative marketing strategies and community engagement. He emphasizes the blend of hard work, luck, and family support essential for navigating the ups and downs of business.
Nov 2, 2023 • 41min
The art of letting go with Vincent and Andrew Kitirattragarn of Dang Foods
Vincent and Andrew Kitirattragarn, co-founders of Dang Foods, open up about the emotional turmoil of stepping away from their beloved snack brand inspired by their heritage. They discuss the impact of the pandemic on their business, navigating layoffs, and tough decisions that tested their resilience. The brothers share a touching story of a serendipitous encounter that offered hope for the future, as well as their aspirations to inspire other Asian entrepreneurs in the food industry. Their candid reflections on success, setbacks, and cultural legacy are truly compelling.
40 snips
Oct 30, 2023 • 1h 22min
Etsy: Rob Kalin
In this engaging conversation, Rob Kalin, the visionary founder of Etsy, shares his journey from a struggling furniture maker in New York to the creator of a global marketplace for handmade goods. He highlights the challenges of rapid growth, his unexpected exit from the company, and the lessons learned about leadership and community. Rob reflects on the importance of craft, innovation, and staying true to one's values, all while navigating the complexities of building a successful brand. His passion for craftsmanship and entrepreneurship remains a driving force in his life.
26 snips
Oct 26, 2023 • 46min
Love’s next chapter with Whitney Wolfe Herd of Bumble
In this engaging conversation, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Founder and CEO of Bumble, shares her journey as the youngest female founder to take a company public, all while adjusting to motherhood during a pandemic. She discusses the innovative ways Bumble adapted, incorporating video features to keep connections alive. Whitney explores the loneliness epidemic fueled by social media and her fascination with using AI to enhance love. She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and the ethical integration of technology in relationships.
6 snips
Oct 23, 2023 • 1h 36min
Sir Kensington's: Scott Norton and Mark Ramadan
Scott Norton and Mark Ramadan, co-founders of Sir Kensington's, turned a college project into a $140 million condiment brand with a delightful fictional backstory. They share how they cleverly challenged Heinz with a whimsical narrative around their gourmet ketchup. The duo reflects on their journey from college friends to entrepreneurs, tackling challenges in branding, market expansion, and even navigating the complex dynamics of co-founder relationships. Their story combines creativity, humor, and insights on the blend of luck and hard work that fueled their success.
10 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 49min
Leading through radical change with Julia Hartz of Eventbrite
Julia Hartz, co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, shares her inspiring journey of steering the ticketing platform through the tumultuous pandemic years. She explains how the precipitous drop in sales forced her to pivot strategies, embracing virtual events and supporting local organizers. Julia offers insights on effective leadership, emphasizing empathy and adaptation in crises. She also shares innovative ideas for running engaging meetings and the importance of nurturing relationships in evolving work environments. This chat reveals her resilience and vision for the future of events.
